Department of Philosophy & Religious Studies

Humanity's oldest traditions are alive, flourishing, and evolving with the 21st century. Philosophers give us the tools to apply our values in a changing world and to maintain a critical epistemic stance in the (mis)information era. And scholars of religious traditions illuminate contemporary expressions of faith, community, and values by putting them in conversation with the diverse traditions of the past.

Philosophy

TU's Philosophy program has a long tradition of pluralism in its curriculum and its faculty. No one methodology predominates, and many are represented. Students may find themselves studying neo-Confucian theories of virtue, the neuroscientific basis of consciousness, existentialist social theory, and formal logic, all in the same semester.

Philosophy Major

Philosophy Minor

Logical Analysis and Scientific Reasoning Certificate

Religious Studies

As once-foreign religions become part of the American culture, it is critical to understand the beliefs and values that now shape our citizenry. Inseparable from the study of the societies in which religions thrive, courses in religious studies cover a wide range of cultures and beliefs, and prepare you for life in an increasingly global culture.

Religious Studies Major

Religious Studies Minor

Jewish Studies Minor

Distinguished Faculty

Our department is home to sixteen fulltime faculty. In addition to their dedication to teaching, they are nationally and internationally respected researchers. Some recent highlights:

Emily Bailey won the the 2026 Excellence in Teaching Award from the American Academy of Religion.
Brian Hillman has been named managing editor of Journal of Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Tim Jankowiak was recently elected to a three-year term as Vice President of the North American Kant Society (2026-2029).
Drs. Kristen Hine, Gilad Sharvit, Nick Tebben, Jake Bartholomew, Bjoern Freter, and Patrick Roney organized the first and second annual Maryland Philosophy Conference in October 2024 and 2025; the next conference is already in the works.
Dr. Murungi hosted the 20th annual meeting of the Geo-Aesthetics conference in March 2026.
Gilad Sharvit and Brian Hillman organized and hosted the "Jewish Exile in Modernity" conference in 2025 (in collaboration with Johns Hopkins and the Institue for Islamic, Christian, and Jewish Studies.
Emily Parker received the 2026 "Above and Beyond Faculty Award" from TU's Student Affairs Leadership

Student-Run Clubs

TU’s Philosophy Party and World Religions Roundtable are student-run groups that promote discussion of various philosophical and religious issues. The forums meet weekly and are open to all students.

Scholarship Competitions

The department administers four essay contests each year (two in the fall and two in the spring). Over $9000 in scholarships was awarded in 2025-2026. Check back soon for details for the 2026-2027 cycle.